Green Infrastructure Grant Scheme Projects

Northampton Art Collective

08 Dec 2010

Northampton Arts Collective have recently undertaken a refurbishment of their Arts Venue at the Fishmarket in Northampton, using a grant received from East Midlands Regional Assembly. The refurbishment incorporated a number of different areas, for which 'up- and- coming' design companies were sought to carry out the work.

Artemis Landscape Architects were chosen to transform an area previously used as car-parking to the rear of the venue into an inspiring 'urban courtyard garden' to be used in conjunction with the cafe and also to host outdoor film screenings and performances.

River Nene Regional Park offered further funding from its Grant Scheme to this garden area which is open to the public Thursday, Friday and Saturdays, and whenever evening openings/ showings are taking place.

The design was based around a scaffolding structure, exploiting both its function of creating a framework and relatively quick method of levelling and concealing a tired, sloping concrete surface, but also for its aesthetic. Celebrating its functionality in exposing fittings and fixtures, the design also aims to re-use materials where possible, providing an affordable and sustainable method of creating an atmospheric, exciting space. The modular nature of this construction also means that the space can evolve with the needs and successes of the Fishmarket as an Arts Venue. Areas remain open to allow views for film screenings, whilst grids, blocks of material, planting, or coloured lighting form shifting perspectives as the user moves around the space.

Further Information ...

Fineshade Community OrchardThis grant was awarded to restore and extend this old orchard at the Forestry Commission Top Lodge site and carry out a site survey.

Hedge & Tree Planting near Quinton GreenThis grant allowed the landowner to replant several kilometres of hedgerow around Quinton and Quinton Green, creating a link from Salcey Forest up to Preston Wood.

Hellidon Millennium FundThe Hellidon Millennium Fund provided funding to plant woodland on the slopes overlooking the golf course. A grant was given to this group to provide a flat footpath with steps to allow the steep slope to be climbed slightly more …

Kettering General Hospital Pocket ParkRNRP funding has led to the creation of a pocket park next to the hospital providing staff and patients with a pleasant area to sit in or walk around in.

Mouton Parish CouncilTwo sites within Moulton, Crowfield Common Local Nature Reserve and Busbys Meadow Pocket Park, have received funding for various projects.

Lake and wetland creation at Uplands FarmA grant was awarded to create a lake for wildlife with surrounding wetland sown with wildflowers in an area that has been scarred by ironstone extraction in the past.

National Trust Lyveden New BieldTwo grants were awarded to this site, for coppicing work at Lady wood. This and to create a walk from Lyveden to Lady wood with associated interpretation.

Northampton Art CollectiveFunding was provided to create a new 'Urban Courtyard Garden' for performances and film screenings as part of the overall refurbishment of this exciting Arts Venue at the heart of Northampton Town Centre